Sunday, February 22, 2009

Dublin's recent dismal results at U21 wre finally put to an end as Jim Gavin's charges put Louth away with a fine win.

But it could have been so different. Playing with a strong wind in the 1st half Dublin were unable to shake off the Louth challenge. Yes Dublin started strongest & an early goal from Dean Rock palming to the net after a cross goal pass from Gavin McEntyre set up an early 5 point lead. But the Wee men rallied and nerves were jangling when Louth scored a late goal to tie the game. Paddy Andrews was superb during this period & but for his efforts Louth could have set up an unasailable lead. The very impressive David Quinn kicked a late point to give the Dubs a 1 point advantage but the omens were not good playing into a 2nd half gale.

Jim Gavin made a critical half time substitution with Erin's Isle's Luke Sweetman replacing an under par Ted Furman & it was the same Sweetman who picked off Dean Rock from the throw in & Barney's son buried the ball in the roof of the net. Further points from Paddy O'Connor, David Quinn etal pushed the Dubs further ahead & when substitute Barry O'Rorke goaled the game was all but over. It was some weekend for the 2007 Supporters Club Minor Player of the Year who had also played a part in Saturday's Crokes victory. Louth kicked 1-02 unanswered late on to take away some of the gloss from the victory but Jim gavin can only be happy with a 7 point win a quarter final fixture against the Royallers. Colm O'Rourke & his son Shane were interested spectators and for the Dubs to progress further they will have to tighten up from the off.